Building Biology Institute®

Check out or Course of the Month: Indoor Climate Overview 50% off for the month of July! Use Coupon Code ico0624com at checkout Mind, body and soul are affected in a myriad of ways by the tangible as well as the intangible aspects of a dwelling. Lao-tzu illustrated this amazing relationship most strikingly when he wrote: “Clay is formed into a vessel. It is because of its emptiness that the vessel is useful. Cut doors and windows to make a room. It is because of its emptiness that the room is useful. Therefore, what is present is used for profit. It is in absence that there is usefulness.” This course explores the physical factors affecting our living climate and how their natural balance forms one cornerstone of our health and well-being. Topics include conditions of a living climate, factors affecting indoor climate, optimal indoor temperature and humidity, windows, building materials, bioclimate and health.

From our 25 Principles of Building Biology Principle 25: Consider the embodied energy and environmental life cycle costs when choosing all materials used in construction. Evaluating materials based on their entire life cycle, including energy consumed during production, use, and disposal, aligns with Building Biology’s holistic approach to ecological and human health.

From our 25 Principles of Building Biology Principle 24: Minimize energy consumption throughout the life of the building utilizing climate-based and energy efficient design, energy and water saving technologies, and renewable energy. Energy efficiency is central to Building Biology, with a focus on reducing carbon footprints through smart design and technology.

From our 25 Principles of Building Biology Principle 23: Avoid the use of building materials that deplete irreplaceable natural resources or are being harvested in an unsustainable manner. Sustainable sourcing of materials ensures conservation of natural resources and promotes ecological balance.

From our 25 Principles of Building Biology Principle 22: Materials and methods of construction shall promote human health and well-being from the extraction of raw materials, through to end-of-building’s life. This principle advocates for environmentally friendly practices that minimize impact on the ecosystem and promote sustainability from resource extraction to disposal.

From our 25 Principles of Building Biology Principle 21: Consider proportion, harmonic measure, order and shape in design. Aesthetic and functional design principles that reflect natural harmonies create pleasing and supportive environments that enhance well-being.

From our 25 Principles of Building Biology Principle 20: Utilize physiological and ergonomic knowledge in interior and furniture design. Ergonomic design tailored to human physiology ensures comfort, reduces physical strain, and promotes health in living and workspaces.

From our 25 Principles of Building Biology Principle 19: Provide adequate acoustical protection from harmful noise and vibration. Protecting occupants from noise pollution and vibration improves quality of life and prevents potential health issues related to stress and hearing loss.

From our 25 Principles of Building Biology Principle 18: Use appropriate thermal radiation strategies for heating buildings including passive solar wherever viable. Passive solar design and other natural heating techniques reduce reliance on fossil fuels and promote energy efficiency, aligning with Building Biology’s emphasis on sustainability.

From our 25 Principles of Building Biology Principle 17: Plan for climatically appropriate surface and air temperature. Tailoring building design to climate conditions ensures efficient use of energy for heating and cooling, enhancing comfort and reducing environmental impact.